For the 2026 school year, there are 2 public schools serving 382 students in Harlan County, NE.
The top-ranked public schools in Harlan County, NE are Alma Elementary At Alma and Alma High School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Harlan County, NE public schools have an average math proficiency score of 77% (versus the Nebraska public school average of 58%), and reading proficiency score of 43% (versus the 47% statewide average). Schools in Harlan County have an average ranking of 7/10, which is in the top 50% of Nebraska public schools.
Minority enrollment is 6% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Nebraska public school average of 38% (majority Hispanic).
Best Public Schools in Harlan County (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Alma Elementary At Alma
(Math: 75-79% | Reading: 45-49%)
Rank:
Rank:
7/
Top 50%10
515 Jewell St
Alma, NE 68920
(308) 928-2131
Alma, NE 68920
(308) 928-2131
Gr: PK-6 | 199 students Student-teacher ratio: 10:1 Minority enrollment: 8%
Rank: #22.
Alma High School
(Math: 75-79% | Reading: 35-39%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
515 Jewell St
Alma, NE 68920
(308) 928-2131
Alma, NE 68920
(308) 928-2131
Gr: 7-12 | 183 students Student-teacher ratio: 11:1 Minority enrollment: 4%
Harlan County Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
Box 477
Orleans, NE 68966
(308) 473-3185
Orleans, NE 68966
(308) 473-3185
Gr: PK-6 | 56 students Student-teacher ratio: 9:1 Minority enrollment: 4%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in Harlan County, NE?
The top-ranked public schools in Harlan County, NE include Alma Elementary At Alma and Alma High School.
How many public schools are located in Harlan County?
2 public schools are located in Harlan County.
What is the racial composition of students in Harlan County?
Harlan County public schools minority enrollment is 6% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the Nebraska public schools average of 38% (majority Hispanic).
Recent Articles
Year-Round Schooling in 2026: Updated Parent Guide
Explore the latest 2026 data, trends, costs, and parent planning tips in the ongoing debate over year-round schooling vs the traditional calendar.
No Child Left Behind: Past, Present, and Future of U.S. School Policy
Explore how No Child Left Behind evolved into ESSA, what it means for 2025‑26 schooling, and what parents need to know about testing, admissions planning, and funding.
Understanding Public School Fees & Optional Costs Guide
Discover what public school fees are required versus optional, with 2026 updates for parents, students, and educators on budgeting and planning.